The Missouri Western women’s basketball team secured their third consecutive victory with a convincing 73-49 win over the Central Oklahoma Bronchos. Four players contributed double figures for the Griffons, led by Brionna Budgetts with 21 points and three steals. Connie Clarke had an outstanding performance with 17 points, seven rebounds, eight assists, seven steals, and two blocks. Mary Fultz added a season-high 12 points. The Griffons’ offense showcased strength beyond the arc, making 11 threes on 32 attempts. The defense forced 30 turnovers from Central Oklahoma, converting them into 40 points.
The game started with Western taking an 8-0 run, securing a 15-8 lead by the end of the first quarter. The Griffons extended their lead to 37-14 at halftime, dominating in the paint. In the second half, Western continued to build on its lead, going on an 8-0 run and entering the fourth quarter with a 56-25 advantage. The Griffons maintained their lead, finishing with a 73-49 victory.
The Griffons, with a 13-4 overall record and 8-3 in the MIAA, are tied for second in the conference. Next, they will face Lincoln on the road.
In men’s basketball, the No. 25-ranked Griffon Men’s Basketball team secured a 57-56 victory over the Central Oklahoma Bronchos. JaRon Thames recorded a double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds, contributing to the Griffons’ sixth straight win. Zion Swader added 13 points, six rebounds, and four steals, while Justin Bubak had six points, a career-high eight rebounds, and two blocks off the bench.
After falling behind 10-7, MWSU went on an 8-0 run in the first half, securing a 30-25 halftime advantage. In the second half, Central Oklahoma took a 48-42 lead, but MWSU responded with a 9-0 run, clinching a 57-56 win. The Griffons showcased strong defense, disrupting UCO’s shots and recording six blocks.
Key highlights:
- Western has won 11 straight games at the Looney Complex.
- The Griffons held Central Oklahoma to 36.4% shooting from the field.
- Western had a 41-30 edge on the boards.
- The Griffons tallied six blocks as a team.
With a 14-3 overall record and 8-3 in the MIAA, the Griffons have won six consecutive games and will face Lincoln on the road in their next matchup.
